Portable ramp system

ABSTRACT

A portable ramp system particularly intended to assist temporarily handicapped persons with transport in and out of houses and buildings. Specifically, the system consists of several modular ramp members removably attached to one another to allow convenient wheelchair access to the application in question. Preferably constructed of wood, the members consist of hingedly-attached starter, rise, and straight panels, which may be folded down to a relatively compact size for the purpose of removal and transport. In addition, the system may include collapsible railing members to further assist the user. Finally, the horizontal panels of the ramp system may include a skid-resistant surface for the utmost in wheelchair traction. As such, the ramp system meets applicable ADA guidelines and provides a quick, convenient, and relatively inexpensive means for temporarily handicapped persons to access houses and similar structures.

This Application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/652,508,which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/891,079, filed bypresent Applicant, which is related to Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/214,677, filed by present Applicant Joseph Massaro, on Jun. 27,2000.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is a portable ramp system particularly intended toassist temporarily handicapped persons with transport in and out ofhouses and buildings. Specifically, the system consists of severalmodular ramp members removably attached to one another to allowconvenient wheelchair access to the application in question. Preferablyconstructed of wood, the members consist of hingedly-attached starter,rise, and straight panels, which may be folded down to a relativelycompact size for the purpose of removal and transport. In addition, thesystem may include collapsible railing members to further assist theuser. Finally, the horizontal panels of the ramp system may include askid-resistant surface for the utmost in wheelchair traction. As such,the ramp system meets applicable ADA guidelines and provides a quick,convenient, and relatively inexpensive means for temporarily handicappedpersons to access houses and similar structures.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Numerous innovations for ramp systems have been provided in the priorart that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may besuitable for the specific individual purposes to which they address,they differ from the present invention as hereinafter contrasted. Thefollowing is a summary of those prior art patents most relevant to theinvention at hand, as well a description outlining the differencesbetween the features of the present invention and those of the priorart.

1. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,933,898, invented by Estes et al., entitled“Portable Wheelchair Ramp”

In the patent to Estes, a series of hingedly connected spanning panelsis provided. Each spanning panel includes two opposing outer edges.Alternating ones of the spanning panels include a raised ridge disposedalong each of the outer edges of the spanning panel. At least one sleeveis disposed along each of the outer edges of a plurality of the spanningpanels. A plurality of elongated rods are provided. Each of the rods isconfigured to pass through a plurality of the sleeves, the rods therebymaintaining the spanning panels in a substantially fixed linearrelationship to one another. An end panel is hingedly connected to eachend of the series of hingedly connected spanning panels. Each of the endpanels is substantially wedge shaped and includes a gripping surface.

2. U.S. Design Pat. Des. No. 373,885, invented by Holland, Jr., entitled“Telescopic Ramp”

The design patent to Holland, Jr. describes an ornamental design for atelescopic ramp, as shown.

3. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 3,818,528, invented by Peterson, entitled“Portable Ramp For Wheel Chairs And The Like”

The patent to Peterson describes a portable ramp embodying a number oflongitudinal ramp members disposed side by side, each including a numberof separate ramp sections arranged end to end, and hinges joining theadjacent ramp members and the adjacent ramp sections of each member in amanner such that the ramp may be folded laterally and endwise between anexpanded configuration of use and a collapsed configuration in which theramp may be conveniently stored and transported. The ramp is intendedprimarily for use as a wheel chair ramp for steps and the like, althoughthe ramp may be used for other purposes.

4. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,517,708, invented by Baranowski, entitled“Community Pathway Access System For Wheelchair Users”

In the patent to Baranowski, an access pathway is provided as a devicethat may be temporarily or portably deployed for wheelchair usersaccompanied by an assistant. The device, which is a pathway that may becarried by the user or provided at a site when required, is installed incooperation with a pre-existing anchor at the site, and may be subjectto temporary loan, such as from a central community service provider ora library. A convenient and inexpensive system is thus provided thatachieves wheelchair access in many circumstances.

5. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,214,817, invented by Allen, entitled “ModularRamp And Landing Walkway Assembly”

The patent to Allen describes a modular ramp and landing assembly madefrom a plurality of similarly sized pre-manufactured concrete filledrectangular panels. The ramp portion is made from the modular panelsattached by their shorter sides. A support post with an angularlyarranged bracket is placed beneath the corners of adjacent panels tosecure them together as well as support them. The landing or horizontalportion of this assembly comprises a similarly sized rectangular panelthe long side of which is in abutting relationship with the short sideof the end of the ramp. Fastener receivers are equi-spaced in duplicatepatterns from each corner through the bottom edge of each panel. Thesize of the panels and the spacing of the fastener receivers are suchthat minimum support legs and brackets may be utilized in constructingthis assembly at a final site.

6. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 4,945,595, invented by Meriweather, entitled“Modular Ramp Assembly”

The patent to Meriweather describes a lightweight pedestrian rampassembly for bridging a span of open water between two marine structuresis readily adaptable in length and width to meet existing siterequirements. The ramp assembly is constructed of successive elongatedramp units, each of which is in turn constructed of adjacent, elongatedchannel shaped fiberglass modules defining a planar walking surfaceacross the backs of the channel webs.

7. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,671,496 invented by Smith, entitled “PortableWheel Chair Ramp”

The patent to Smith describes a wheel chair ramp comprising a pluralityof leaves extending in the direction of intended use of the ramp. Theleaves are joined together by flexible hinges so that the leaves may befolded to a stalked condition. The flexible hinges are formed by fabricstraps attached to the sides of the leaves and passing between adjacentleaves.

8. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,446,937, invented by Haskins, entitled“Modular Ramp System”

The patent to Haskins describes a modular ramp system for use with athreshold which has an offset. The modular ramp system includes a numberof elements which may be arranged in various combinations in order toconform to offsets of varying height.

9. U.S. Utility Patent No. 5,894,618, invented by Jacobsen et al.,entitled “Ramp System”

The Jacobsen et al. invention relates to a ramp system. The ramp systemincludes a riser component with a first side and second side that meetsthe first. The second side and first form an angle less than 90°. Thesystem also includes an adjuster component positionable within theriser. The adjuster component lifts one end of the first side so that anangle that the second makes with the horizontal is increased compared toan angle made between the second side and the horizontal without theadjuster component.

10. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 3,995,832 invented by Wiese, entitled“Collapsible Bleacher Rail”

The patent to Wiese describes a collapsible bleacher railing inconjunction and for use with a collapsible bleacher section or sections,which includes normally vertical, upright, support sections having aplurality of telescoping handrail sections therebetween such that as thebleachers are moved to their relative locations, the handrail willextend and collapse therewith and therefore eliminate the requirementfor removal from the bleacher sections.

11. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 5,237,932, invented by Edwards, entitled“Collapsible Railing”

The patent to Edwards describes a collapsible railing having an upperrail and a plurality of posts hingedly attached to the upper rail atspaced apart locations. A crank including a shaft portion and an armportion which is mounted for rotation about the long axis of the shaftportion is connected to each post. An actuator actuates the motion ofthe crank to pivot the posts and the upper rails between a collapsedposition in which each post is oriented generally horizontally, and anerect position in which the posts are in an upright position.

12. U.S. Utility Pat. No. 6,009,586, invented by Hawkes et al., entitled“Truss And Panel System For Access Ramps”

The patent to Hawkes et al. describes a ramp structure which may beconstructed quickly to provide temporary or permanent access to allindividuals between two areas of different elevation. A truss designallows long spans to form a bridge without the need for intermediatesupports and related support foundations. A truss cross-connector isfirmly wedged in place between two trusses and allows the quick, solidjoining of two trusses without fasteners to form a strong and stableassembly to serve as ramps, bridges, elevated walkways, etc. The trusscross-connector has resistance to bending and supports the edge of asurface panel and provides a retaining pocket for the surface panel. Thetruss cross-connector firmly supports the trusses in an upright positionwhen the trusses are used as railings. Surfacing panels placed betweenthe truss cross-connectors provide a quality, long lasting surface whichis quickly installed for temporary or permanent installations. The trusscross-connector also prevents casual removal of a closely fittingsurface panel. A special tool is included in the system for easydisassembly of light trusses of this design without damage to thecomponents. The design of the ramp system can be easily disassembled andreused for temporary or permanent installations and meets Americans withDisabilities Act guidelines.

As outlined above, the prior art patents that relate to temporary orportable ramps largely entail elements such as: telescopic panels;panels held together by fabric straps; portable ramps intended to bridgewater; and portable ramps intended to assist the user in entering andexiting vehicles. Generally, such prior art patents describe relativelysmall portable ramps, rather than stronger, more stable ramp systemsthat may be installed for several months and then removed. Collapsiblerailings appear in certain prior art patents, but such inventions mostlyrelate to bleachers and seating assemblies.

In contrast to all of the above, the present invention is a system ofhingedly-attached wooden starter, rise, and straight ramp panels whichmay be folded down to a compact size for removal and transport. Thesystem includes collapsible railing members and a skid-resistant surfacefor enhanced safety and general effectiveness.

Importantly, the prior art does not disclose or suggest many of thefeatures of the present invention; specifically the 90 degreehorizontal, straight component to create a generally “L” shapedconfiguration or a 45 degree straight component to create a generallycurved configuration.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As noted, the present invention is a portable ramp system intended toassist handicapped persons with transport in and out of houses andbuildings.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a systemconsisting of several modular ramp members removably attached to oneanother to allow convenient wheelchair access to the application inquestion.

It is an additional goal of the invention to provide a ramp systemconstructed of wood, for the purposes of strength and durability.

It is another object of the invention to provide a ramp systemconsisting of hingedly-attached starter, rise, and straight panels,which may be folded down to a relatively compact size for the purpose ofremoval and transport.

Furthermore, it is a goal of the present invention to provide a rampsystem which may include collapsible railing members to further assistthe user.

It is another object of the invention to provide a system featuringhorizontal panels which include a skid-resistant surface for the utmostin wheelchair traction.

Finally, it is an important goal of the present invention to provide atemporary ramp system that meets all applicable ADA guidelines andprovides a quick, convenient, and relatively inexpensive means fortemporarily handicapped persons to access houses and similar structures.

The novel features which are considered characteristic for the inventionwill be set forth in the claims when submitted. The invention itself,however, both as to its construction and its method of operation,together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be bestunderstood from the description of the embodiments to be submitted whenread and understood in connection with accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a display of basic modular components of the present systemincluding starter portion, rise members, straight members, andcollapsible railings.

FIG. 2 is a display of sample layouts of the basic modular components,illustrating various installation combinations of the present invention,also for the purposes of example only.

FIG. 3 is a side, three-quarter perspective view of one embodiment ofthe present invention, illustrating the principal components inthree-dimensional view.

FIG. 4 is a side, partially exploded view of one embodiment of thepresent invention, illustrating the principal components inthree-dimensional view, with means of attachment thereon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description refers to FIG. 1, which is a display of basicmodular components of the present system including starter portion, risemembers, straight members, and collapsible railings; FIG. 2, which is adisplay of sample layouts of the basic modular components, illustratingvarious installation combinations of the present invention, also for thepurposes of example only; FIG. 3, which is a side, three-quarterperspective view of one embodiment of the present invention,illustrating the principal components in three-dimensional view; andFIG. 4, which is a side, partially exploded view of one embodiment ofthe present invention, illustrating the principal components inthree-dimensional view, with means of attachment thereon.

As depicted in FIG. 2, each version of the system consists primarily ofat least one start component, at least one rise component, and at leastone platform or straight component, each of a size and shape selectedfrom the components illustrated on FIG. 1. The components areconstructed of wood in the preferred mode, providing an attractive andeconomical option for the handicapped and disabled in need of a rampassembly.

For the purposes of example, simple pressure treated lumber may beutilized to accomplish the purposes of the invention. Thus, a particulardistinction between the present invention and ramp systems of the priorart lies in the usage of such wood components in conjunction with themodular ability of the present invention. Importantly, any of thesecomponents may be of a great variety of lengths or widths, as needed foreach application. Depending upon the configuration of the area to whichthe ramp system is temporarily installed (ie. door location, location ofpath, etc.), additional components besides the start, rise, and platformmay be utilized.

Thus, the example shown in the top left hand corner of the FIGUREincludes a 90 degree straight component, which functions to affix to arise component on a first side and a straight component on the secondside. This functions to create a generally “L” shaped configuration,when needed.

Along the same lines, the example depicted on the center left portion ofthe FIGURE includes a 45 degree straight component, which similarlyfunctions to affix to a rise component on a first side and a straightcomponent on the second side. This functions to create a generallycurved configuration, when the location of the door dictates that suchis required.

More elaborate embodiments are depicted in the two illustrations on theright hand side of FIG. 2, wherein the ramp system is adapted to include6 or more components, such as 3 or more rise components with a startcomponent, at least one platform, and 90 degree straight component, ifneeded.

In any case, a series of mounted brackets as a fastening means ofcomponents may be utilized. Such unique brackets are interlocking innature and provide convenience in installation as well as sufficientspace for drainage in the system.

To further illustrate the overall design, size, and possibleconfiguration of the present invention, FIGS. 3 and 4 are side,three-dimensional views of a simple layout of the ramp system, shown forthe purposes of example only. Specifically, illustrated in FIG. 3 arethe start component (12), which comprises start top surface (12A) andstart bottom surface (12B); rise component (14), which comprises risetop surface (14A) and rise bottom surface (14B); platform component(16), which comprises platform top surface (16A) and platform bottomsurface (16B); collapsible railing assembly (18), which compriseshorizontal members (18H) and vertical members (18V); and a plurality ofsupport members (20). Illustrated in FIG. 4 are the principalcomponents, as well as fastening means (22, 24).

As already mentioned, the start component (12), rise component(s) (14),and platform component(s) (16) may each be of a previously determinedlength and width, according to what is necessary.

Railing assembly (18) includes a total of 3 horizontal members (18H) inthe preferred mode, but may also consist of 2 or 4 such members. Aquantity of vertical members in proportion to the length of the assemblyare utilized for support. Support brackets in a general “X” shape mayalso be utilized, functioning to provide additional support for highervertical railing members.

Moreover, the start top surface (12A), rise top surface (14A), andplatform top surface (16A) may each comprise a non-skid materialthereon, functioning to allow for increased traction for wheels and thelike. The railing assembly (18) and any other components may comprise atextured, coated material thereon, functioning to protect the componentsfrom moisture and also allowing for an enhanced gripping surface for thepurposes of safety. The start component (12) may also comprise analuminum transitional member at a first end thereof, functioning tobridge any gap between a ground surface and the start component, forease of transport of a wheelchair or the like.

Regarding any of the above embodiments, as mentioned in the Summarysection herein, the entire ramp system conforms to any and allapplicable ADA guidelines. Most notably, the guidelines require 1 inchor rise in pitch per every 1 foot in length of ramp utilized. Thepresent invention adheres to such standards, rendering the systemeffective and safe for a host of applications and uses. Within suchguidelines, the precise angle at which the components sit may be varied,if desired for a particular application.

To use a common example to further describe the above, a 3 stepconfiguration at a height of 24 inches utilizes 2-8 foot rise members, asingle 8 foot start component, plus the platform or straight componentas desired. As an additional example, a total of only 2 steps at aheight of 14 inches utilizes a single 6 foot start member, a single 8foot rise component, plus the platform or straight component as desired.

It should also be noted that the size and total length of the presentramp system can vary tremendously, such as from as little as 6 feet inlength, to as much as over 80 feet in length. In addition, all of theaforementioned components may further comprise a curb of apreviously-determined size. For example, the preferred embodimentutilizes a 3½ inch curb.

Furthermore, the starter component of any configuration may include aclosed extended rail member thereon, functioning to provide a convenientmeans for the user to gain support when entering the ramp area that isstill very safe in nature. In addition, an inside grab rail may beincluded in the system, installed separately as a option for extrasafety and support. In any case, the railing assembly may include acenter rail which is continuous and unobstructed, so as to allow a userto use the rail for support without any impediments.

Moreover, the top rail of the ramp system of the present invention mayutilize a series of interlocking components in a tongue and groove styleconfiguration, functioning to provide additional support to theassembly. In such case, certain bracket-like support members comprise asubstantially flat, rectangular member extending outwardly from an edgeof the bracket, with a corresponding series of bracket-like supportmembers comprising similarly-shaped apertures for receiving suchextended members. The extended members may be constructed of a durablemetal or other rigid material, and may be further reinforced throughusage of traditional fasteners.

Also, in any instance the ramp system may comprise an illumination meansthereon, functioning to provide additional light in the ramp area forsafety and to enhance the appearance of the system. Along similar lines,the ramp system of the present invention may even include a variety ofdecorative elements thereon, such as attractive spindles upon therailing assembly or the like. Such will enhance the appearance of thesystem and provide an aesthetically pleasing item that renders the samean even more attractive option for users in need of a ramp assembly.

Therefore, in total, the versatile nature of modular components allowsthe ramp system of the present invention to adapt to accommodatevirtually any application, the system can be literally made to order,the system is highly effective in nature yet inexpensive, the systemprovides ease of installation and ease of transport not provided by theprior art, and the system conforms to all safety requirements andguidelines.

With regards to all FIGURES, while the invention has been illustratedand described as embodied, it is not intended to be limited to thedetails shown, since it will be understood that various omissions,modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of thedevice illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled inthe art without departing in any way from the spirit of the invention.

Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist ofthe present invention that others can readily adapt it for variousapplications without omitting features that, from the standpoint ofprior art, constitute essential characteristics of the generic orspecific aspects of this invention. What is claimed as new and desiredto be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.

1. A portable ramp system comprising: a start component, which comprisesa start top surface and a start bottom surface, the start componentfurther comprising at least one closed extended rail member on a firstside of the start top surface, functioning to provide a convenient meansfor a user to gain support when entering a ramp area, and functioning toprovide a safe configuration; a plurality of rise components, each ofwhich comprises a rise top surface and a rise bottom surface; aplurality of platform components, each of which comprises a platform topsurface and a platform bottom surface; at least one collapsible railingassembly, which comprises horizontal members and vertical members; therailing assembly including a horizontal center rail thereon, the centerrail continuous and unobstructed by obstacles; the railing assemblyfurther comprising an inside grab rail to provide extra safety andsupport; a 90 degree horizontal, straight component which functions toaffix to a rise component on a first side and a horizontal, straightcomponent on a second side, functioning to create a generally “L” shapedconfiguration of the ramp system; a 45 degree straight component, whichfunctions to affix to a rise component on a first side and a straightcomponent on a second side, functioning to create a generally curvedconfiguration of the ramp system; the start top surface, rise topsurface, and platform top surface each comprising a non-skid materialthereon, functioning to allow for increased traction for wheels; thecomponents manufactured of pressure treated lumber and comprising atextured, coated material thereon, functioning to protect the componentsfrom moisture and allow for an enhanced gripping surface for thepurposes of safety; the ramp system conforming to ADA guidelines with a1 inch rise in pitch per every 1 foot in length of ramp utilized; thesystem bearing indicia upon an outer surface thereof; the system furthercomprising an illumination means upon an outer surface thereof; the rampsystem comprising a series of mounted brackets as a fastening means ofcomponents, the brackets interlocking in nature and providingconvenience in installation and sufficient spaces for drainage; and theramp system comprising support brackets in a general “X” shape,functioning to provide additional support for higher vertical railingmembers.
 2. The portable ramp system as described in claim 1, whereinthe railing assembly comprises a total of 3 horizontal members.
 3. Theportable ramp system as described in claim 1, wherein the railingassembly comprises a total of 4 horizontal members.